If you’ve only got two days in Wellington, don’t stress—this little capital punches way above its weight when it comes to culture, food, and natural beauty. From sipping flat whites on Cuba Street to spotting native birds in the wild, here’s exactly how to spend 48 hours in Welly.
Day 1: City And Waterfront Vibes
9am
Kick things off with a caffeine hit at Orange cafe on Cuba Street which is run by Ai and her four-legged friend Ringo. On the menu you will find the Hot Jaffa (orange hot chocolate), an outstanding flat white, home bakes, and toasties crafted by her partner that the locals swear by. Do yourself a favour and order the Ham & Carbonara Sauce (it’s just like a classic ham and cheese but layered with carbonara sauce so it’s full of creamy richness and black pepper heat).
10am
Once you’re fuelled up, make your way to Te Papa Tongarewa, the national museum that’s equal parts fascinating and fun. Free to enter (for Kiwis and residents of New Zealand, but international visitors aged 16 and older must pay an entry fee of $35), it’s packed with everything from a real colossal squid to powerful exhibitions like Gallipoli that’ll give you goosebumps. It’s the kind of place where you can geek out on history, art, and culture all under one roof, and still find yourself saying "just one more gallery" two hours later.
12.30pm
Next up, Oriental Bay. Just a short stroll from the museum, this golden stretch is where locals sprawl out with fish and chips, dip their toes in the harbour, and pretend they’re on holiday. On a sunny day it’s pure magic—gelato in hand (Kaffee Eis is the local go-to), salty breeze in your hair, and the kind of views that make you wonder why you don’t live here already.
Image credit: Fred's | Instagram
1.30pm
When hunger hits, you’ve got options, this pocket of Welly knows how to feed you well. Grab fish and chips from Mt Vic Chippery and eat them on the sand (the only correct way, really), or swing by Beach Babylon for 70s-inspired decor, hearty all-day brunch, and cocktails that taste even better with sea views just across the road. If sandos are more your thing, head back to Cuba Street and check out Fred’s. Think sammies piled high on the good stuff (locally baked breads from Wellington Sourdough, Shelly Bay Baker, and Dough Bakery). You’ve got the classics plus next-level fillings like crispy panko chicken schnitzel with iceberg lettuce, mustard, and pickle mayo.
3pm
After lunch you’ll want to hop on the iconic Wellington Cable Car and in just a few minutes you’ll be whisked from the hustle of Lambton Quay to panoramic city views at the Botanic Gardens. Once you’ve soaked it all in, take the scenic wander back down through winding paths, native bush, and bursts of colourful blooms—extra dreamy if you time it with golden hour as the sun dips over the harbour.
Image credit: Havana Bar | Facebook
6.30pm
When dinner time rolls around, you’ve got plenty of stellar options. Keep it cool with laidback tapas and cocktails at Havana Bar, a vibey spot set in old worker’s cottages, or go luxe with a full-blown fine dining experience at Logan Brown, where every plate feels like a work of art. Either way, your taste buds are in for a serious treat.
9.00pm
End the night with a cheeky nightcap at one of Welly’s cosy cocktail bars. Our pick would be Crumpet, which is tucked into the corner of The Opera House. The atmosphere is a cozy blend of vintage charm and modern flair, with jazz tunes, candlelit tables, and black-and-white photos lining the walls. And yes, they serve crumpets—savoury and sweet, from prosciutto and mozzarella to banana and butterscotch. No reservation needed, just walk in and let the bartenders work their magic.
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Day 2: Nature And Neighbourhoods
8am
Rise and shine because this morning it's time to make your way up to the iconic Mount Victoria Lookout. From up here, you get sweeping views of the city, harbour, and hills that make it totally worth the short climb. Expect plenty of photo ops, a gentle breeze, and a chance to just pause and take in the scenery.
9.30am
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Prefab Eatery. Tucked away on Jessie Street in Te Aro, it’s a buzzing spot where freelancers, families, and brunch lovers all collide over house-made granola, bacon-and-egg butties, and their famous potato gratin. With coffee roasted on-site under their ACME label and fresh bakery goods daily, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger at the long communal tables and soak up the warm, industrial-chic vibes.
Image credit: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne | Facebook
11am
Once the coffee has kicked in, it’s time to make your way to Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (the world’s first fully fenced urban ecosanctuary). Explore the 225-hectare predator-free forest on your own or with an expert guide who will show you the best places to spot wildlife like kākāriki, tuatara, and takahē. To finish, grab lunch at Rata Cafe, which serves up delicious food made from sustainably sourced ingredients, while admiring the views over the lake.
2pm
If the weather’s playing ball, hop on the ferry to Matiu/Somes Island—just 20 minutes from the CBD but it feels like a whole other world. Once you land, expect walking tracks with epic harbour views, native bush buzzing with birdlife, and even a chance to spot little blue penguins. The island’s packed with history too, from old quarantine stations to WWII gun emplacements, so it’s part nature adventure, part time capsule. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this one.
5pm
Once you’re back on dry land, it’s time to start your craft beer crawl. First up, Garage Project Taproom where the pours are as wild and creative as the vibe (think sours, hazies, and experimental brews you didn’t know you needed). Next, make your way to Parrotdog Brewery, a laidback, beachy spot serving up easy-drinking classics and limited releases that go down a treat with their deli-style bites.
Image credit: Kisa | Supplied
8pm
From there, wrap things up with dinner back on Cuba Street. Kisa is all about big, bold Middle Eastern flavours in a vibey Art Deco space. Think fresh-baked pita, charcoal-grilled meats, and mezze plates made for sharing (from creamy hummus to smoky eggplant and spiced lamb shoulder). Pair it with a local drop or a cocktail with a Turkish twist and you’ve got one of Wellington’s most exciting dining spots.
10pm
If you’re still going strong, it’s time to enjoy one last drink before you call it (because 48 hours in Wellington deserves a proper cheers). Finish the night at Dee’s Place, a neighbourhood whiskey bar hidden underground. Here you’ll find one of the city’s biggest selections of American whiskeys, interesting cocktails, and plenty of atmosphere.
Pro Tips for First-Timers
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Wellington weather has a mind of its own so pack a jacket even if the sky looks blue.
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Movie nerd? Make time for Wētā Workshop to see the magic behind Lord of the Rings. This would be a great alternative to Matiu/Somes Island if the ferry isn't running due to bad weather.
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The city is compact, so walking is your best friend. Just save your energy for the hills and grab a bus or Uber when needed.
Where To Stay
Wellington may be compact, but its hotel scene packs serious punch. From boldly design-driven boutique stays to luxe French-chic comfort, here's were we recommend spending the night.
TRYP by Wyndham Wellington
15 Tory Street
Image credit: TRYP by Wyndham Wellington | Supplied
Fabulously located just around the corner from Te Papa, TRYP by Wyndham Wellington is a boujee four-star accommodation that will tick all your boxes. Opened in February 2023, this fully renovated heritage-listed building features 77 rooms which is a mix of hotel rooms, studio apartments and the largest luxury penthouse in central Wellington no less. Each room has its individual style and the hotel stays true to its Art Deco roots, with a nod to Old Chicago.
Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington
213 Cuba Street
For the quintessential Wellington experience, you really can’t go past Cuba Street, so why not stay smack-bang in the thick of it? Thanks to Naumi Studio Hotel Wellington, you can. Located in a lovingly restored and renovated heritage building, Naumi gives a nod to the past and embraces the future, making it one of the best hotels in Wellington.
The dazzling new fit-out is bursting with personality, featuring works by local artists and designers, and sprinkled with creative touches inspired by Wellington. From the moment you set foot in the lobby, with its floral backdrop and giant pink flower sculpture, you’ll feel like you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole into Wonderland. The colour and whimsy continue throughout the lounge bar, where you can cosy up in a plush armchair and sip on a cocktail or two while admiring the eclectic treasures on display.
QT Wellington
90 Cable Street
Image credit: QT Wellington | Supplied
Think thick carpets, dark mood lighting, luxe furniture, and foliage the plant lover in your life would envy. QT Wellington’s beautifully designed hotel is the place to stay for an exclusive and grand getaway. With art being the main focus of the hotel, they’ve paired with local artists to design unique rooms, meaning each has its own feel, look and vibe. All the rooms include a king bed, a deep-dish bath, a rain shower and of course fluffy white robes. QT also offers its guests a leisure centre complete with a jacuzzi, sauna and a 70m lap pool, making it one of the absolute best hotels in the city.
For a full run down on the best hotels in Wellington, check out our complete guide here.
Looking for more? Check out:
- The Best Craft Beer Spots In Wellington
- The Best Cafes In Wellington
- 50 Of The Best Things To Do In Wellington
Main image credit: WellingtonNZ - Wellington City Council | Website